Walking Therapy: Stepping Out To Open Up

One of my clients, who has been with me for some time, began his counselling sessions in my therapy room, just like many others. During our initial conversations, he shared that he used to walk frequently and found it therapeutic, but due to recent life events, he had stopped. I encouraged him to reconnect with walking, but engaging in long walks alone led to rumination, deep overthinking, and distressβ€”turning an activity he once loved into something unsettling.

At the end of our third session, after reflecting on his experience, he shared how walking was making him feel. I suggested that we try Walking Therapy for our next session, instead of meeting indoors, and he agreed. That was in late October. Since then, we have met weekly, holding only one session indoors throughout the changing seasons. From Autumn’s falling leaves to Winter’s crisp air, and now Spring’s renewal, this journey has taught me profound lessons about the benefits and challenges of Walking Therapy.

Why Walking Therapy Works

βœ… Breaking Barriers with Eye Contact
For some clients, maintaining eye contact throughout a traditional counselling session can feel overwhelming. Walking Therapy offers a more comfortable approach, allowing discussions to flow naturally without direct gaze pressure, fostering honesty, vulnerability, and openness in sessions.

βœ… Seasons & Symbolism
Moving through different seasons, observing shifting landscapes, and experiencing the natural world evokes memories, emotions, and reflections that may not surface in an indoor setting. The golden hues of autumn, the shorter winter days, and the renewal of spring serve as powerful metaphors for personal growth and change.

βœ… Navigating Roadblocks & Challenges
Obstacles are inevitableβ€”both in life and on the paths we walk. During sessions, we have encountered overflowing rivers, fallen trees, and unexpected detours, each presenting a real-time metaphor for overcoming difficulties. As a therapist, these moments challenge me to adjust the session while allowing my client to experience problem-solving and resilience in action, deepening the therapeutic alliance.

βœ… Secondary Gains: Nature & Mental Health
Beyond the therapeutic conversation itself, Walking Therapy enhances mental well-being through:

  • 🌿 Nature Connection: Boosting mood and reducing stress.

  • πŸšΆβ€β™‚οΈ Physical Activity: Improving overall health and energy levels.

  • 😌 Relaxation: Helping clients feel more grounded and present.

  • πŸŒ… Sensory Engagement: Stimulating thought processes in new ways.

Is Walking Therapy Right for You?

Not all therapists offer Walking Therapy, but if you feel that movement and nature could complement your counselling experience, consider discussing it with your therapist. Walking can be a powerful tool for self-reflection, emotional clarity, and mental health support.

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